BHASVIC Sixth Form East Sussex
A contemporary steel-framed extension at BHASVIC has transformed the student social space, delivering a light-filled environment that integrates seamlessly with the existing college buildings, while responding to complex structural and site constraints.
The BHASVIC Sixth Form College project, in Brighton & Hove, East Sussex, UK, involved the delivery of a new steel frame extension to an existing masonry building, designed to increase the size and capacity of the college's student social area.
The scheme supports the college's wider commitment to enhancing the student experience through modern, high-quality facilities that promote wellbeing and interaction.
Scott White and Hookins were appointed to provide Structural and Civil Engineering services, working closely with Ward Williams Associates as Project Manager and Square as Contractor.
Collaboration was central to the project's success, ensuring architectural intent, thanks to HNW's design, as well as ensuring structural performance and construction practicality were fully aligned.
The extension presented several technical challenges, including:
- Extensive glazing on three elevations - requiring careful consideration of stability, load paths and deflection control.
- Integrating the new steel frame with the existing masonry structure - demanding sensitive detailing, while the proximity of an existing retaining wall supporting a high - basement introduced further constrains that informed the engineering strategy.
- Construction sequencing - given the active education environment.
The completed extension delivers increased capacity and a modern, welcoming social space that enhances student experience and wellbeing, demonstrating the value of collaborative, technically robust engineering solutions.
It was a great project to be a part of.
